Globalization Program

The Globalization Program studies the effects of the increasingly integrated global economy on the environment and society.

The explosive growth of the global economy threatens the natural systems that sustain life on Earth. Despite some significant successes in reducing industrial pollution and increasing efficiency, globalization is devastating natural habitats, speeding global warming, and increasing air and water pollution. At the same time, due to the increasingly global nature of trade and business, traditional national environmental protection techniques have become less effective.

The Globalization Program studies the local, national, and international impacts of globalization while developing solutions to support healthy economic growth, protect the environment, and create a more equitable world.

Environmental Policy in Transition
Due in great measure to the pressures posed by globalization, environmental policy both in the United States and abroad is in transition. Many government officials, environmentalists, and business leaders believe that the traditional "command and control" regulatory system--as useful as it's been in reducing pollution and regulating unsafe practices--is approaching the limits of its effectiveness.

In response, both environmentalists and corporations have begun to explore new approaches like voluntary, performance-based environmental initiatives. The Pacific Institute's Globalization program is working to influence these initiatives and environmental standards in general, with participation in programs like The CEO Water Mandate with the United Nations and the Alliance for Water Stewardship with The Nature Conservancy, the Water Stewardship Initiative, and many others. Global environmental standards and voluntary industry programs have many possible benefits for those concerned about environmental protection and social equity--provided these efforts are strong enough to be significant and credible.

One of the most influential standards-setting bodies is the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). And much of our work has focused on ensuring that ISO-created standards protect the environment, consumers, and the public at large. A comprehensive report on ISO's environmental standards produced by the Pacific Institute in 2000 provided a critical, public interest analysis--while informing policymakers, environmental and consumer groups, and the general public about this important subject.